Work Related Pain in Gynecologic Surgeons - A National Survey

Abstract

Study Objective

This study aimed to: (1) ascertain the prevalence of work-related pain among gynecologic surgeons, (2) describe the risk factors and sequelae of pain, and (3) assess the need for an ergonomic curriculum.

Design

Survey study.

Setting

The survey was electronically administered.

Participants

Gynecologic surgery subspecialists and fellows in training, and Obstetrics and Gynecology specialists who performed gynecologic surgery were included.

Measurements and Main Results

A 38-question anonymous survey was developed from the available ergonomic literature and had 3 main sections: (1) demographic information, (2) pain history, and (3) ergonomic education. A total of 305 gynecologic surgeons participated in the study. Of these, 76.7% were female. Most respondents were Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeons (64.6%) with conventional laparoscopy as the primary surgical modality (65.6%). Of the respondents, 95.7% reported experiencing pain during or after surgery. Female surgeons (p = .018), shorter surgeons (OR = 2.4, 95% confidence interval [1.1, 5.4]), and those with a smaller gloves (p = .025) were more likely to report severe pain. Surgeons who reported worse pain were more likely to seek treatment (p = .007) and to take time off from operating (p <.001). Among the respondents, 79.4% reported engaging in various interventions to treat surgery-related pain. Due to pain, 23.9% reported changing the surgical modality, and 62.5% were concerned about their ability to operate in the future. Of the surgeons, 61.3% did not feel confident in their ability to set up their operating room ergonomically. 98.0% recommend formal ergonomic training for residents.

Conclusions

Surgeons are at risk of work-related pain. Gynecologic surgeons have been understudied and face specific ergonomic challenges. In this national survey of high-volume gynecologic surgeons of various subspecialties, we report a high rate of surgery-related pain and significant clinical and nonclinical sequelae of pain, and demonstrate the need to implement and improve ergonomic training for Obstetrics and Gynecology trainees.